Natural Deodorant that Actually Works? Really, Truly?

Looking for some natural deodorant that doesn't stink? No Sweat- we got you. I remember watching a 'Chapter' of Stranger Things where Chief Hopper reminds Eleven that it's not OK to have dessert before eating dinner. The scene progresses to them removing the cover of their square plate to reveal a quick and easy Microwave TV dinner. I was thinking about how cool the microwave was 'back then.' Advertisers were promoting speed and convenience. Now, there's discussion on the possible risks and negative side-effects of repeated microwave use. This is in the same vein that we are discovering most supermarket deodorants contain parabens or aluminum, which are known to be toxic in large dose, especially when it comes to women's health (read more about that here). These are in small trace amounts. But, if you could find a deodorant without harmful chemicals in any capacity and it’s a deodorant that actually works, why wouldn't you use it, instead?

I knew that if there was a natural deodorant that really, truly worked and smelled great, I would make the switch because it causes less harm. One day, I would throw away my trusty Dove spray deodorant and commit to a holy grail product with ingredients that are natural and more beneficial in the long term.

In a previous post, Joli mentioned how she was in the process of testing out a natural deodorant. She was the first to make the switch to natural deodorant while I remained hesitant for way too long. I didn't believe an all-natural deodorant could keep my under arms sweat-free and smelling A+. "um, OK." I would say in my head as I shrugged it off time and time again. Well, I’ve now tried several natural deodorants and am going to tell you what I think about them. Below are the deodorants that I've tried AND YOU GUYS! Even though I didn't love them all, these actually work enough to be satisfied with them.

FOUR NATURAL DEODORANTS THAT ACTUALLY WORK:

1. Schmidt's Cedarwood + Juniper.

This one is my favorite. It's a winner for me because it’s simple to apply and I find it perfect for the gym because the scent masks anything that might be offensive. It has a woodsy and musky scent, but not overwhelming. The cedarwood + juniper scent is reminiscent of wearing one of your boo’s sweatshirt that still has his scent lingering on it. The texture is creamy and thick but softens up with body heat and melts upon contact, so a little goes a long way. Schmidt’s deodorant comes in a stick and a jar formula. I tried both and I prefer this stick formula over the jar because of ease of use and travel convenience. This Schmidt’s Cedarwood + Juniper one is my favorite scent Schmidt's offers but they are all pretty good.

* UPDATE March 9, 2018: This deodorant stains white/light t-shirts once you've been sweating in it. The deodorant can also transfer from under your arms to the inside of your t-shirt and leave a residue/stain.

2. Eau Des Minimes. Le Couvent des Minimes Everyday Deodorant.

Made with Alum Stone, this deodorant does a pretty good job at hydrating and refreshing as it neutralizes unpleasant odor. I love how it cools on contact. I really love this roll-on deodorant and find it nourishing and refreshing for post-shave sensitive skin. Orange oil and lemon peel oil improve underarm tone and texture for a smooth feel and renewed appearance. The rosemary extracts soothe freshly shaved skin to reduce redness and irritation.

3. Schmidt's Lavender + Sage.

The scent is lovely but deodorant application shouldn't be this extra. Get the stick version instead. To apply, you use the plastic, mini-spatula included to scoop the paste. Rub the crumbly mess between your hands to warm and soften before finally applying it under your arms. This messy process makes it undesirable to reach for it when I need to re-apply. The compact glass jar makes it great for your purse, though. I picked this up at Whole Foods. It works, but it’s a “nah” for me. It's inconvenient— the idea of it is better than reality.

P.S. I also noticed that if I apply this right after I shave, the deodorant stings my underarms- they were straight flames for 1 hour or so after application. This doesn't happen with the Cedarwood + Juniper scent so it might be that I am sensitive to the sage essential oils. But, I'm not sure. Everyone has different tolerances to different essential oils.

4. Sanoflore Nuage de fraicheur.

I picked this up in France and haven't found it in the US. I really love this deodorant. When I go back to Paris, I will definitely be picking up a 2-Pack from the City Pharma. I love the soft, sweet, feminine scent that reminds me of fresh washed cotton laundry but it definitely needs re-application throughout the day. It claims to be effective for 24 hours. I didn't find this to be exactly true but it did help neutralize odors. Also, it's not an antiperspirant so it won't stop you from producing natural sweat, only to neutralize it. I love how the Sanoflore Nuage de Fraicheur deodorant uses cloves and lemon essential oils that are great for their antibacterial properties. Clove and lemon combat bacteria that produce unwanted odors while volcanic mineral, Perlite limits the amount of wetness produced without disrupting the body's natural rhythm of releasing toxins. It’s not perfect, but I would still buy this deodorant again.

Have you found a natural deodorant that WORKS? Share it with us in the comments below.